September 12, 2023 – The Charlotte Hornets and Dole Food Company today announced a multi-year partnership under which Dole, which has its U.S. headquarters located in Charlotte, becomes a Proud Partner of the Charlotte Hornets.
“We are pleased to have Dole as an official partner of its hometown team, the Charlotte Hornets,” said Hornets Sports & Entertainment President & Vice Chairman Fred Whitfield. “Dole is an iconic brand, and like the Hornets, is committed to helping address issues related to food insecurity and wellness. We are proud to be working alongside Dole to create meaningful activations in our community.”
Community engagement is a key component of the agreement, with the two organizations delivering fresh fruit donated by Dole to select Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools on several occasions throughout the year to promote healthy eating habits among students and families.
"We are thrilled to announce this connection between Dole and the Charlotte Hornets. While we have had a large presence in Charlotte for several years now, this partnership amplifies our commitment to the city we proudly call home," said Xavier Roussel, Chief Marketing and Sustainability Officer at Dole. "At Dole we are on a mission to Make the World a Healthier Place and this collaboration empowers us to be actively engaged, visible, and positively impactful in the very place we operate. With eagerness and anticipation, we look forward to a successful journey ahead, one filled with meaningful interactions, enriched experiences, and above all, an abundance of joy and fun!"
Along with being designated as a Proud Partner of the Charlotte Hornets, Dole receives the right to use team marks and logos, the opportunity to serve as presenting partner for one home game each season, a scoreboard feature video during select games and additional assets.
To tip off the partnership, Hugo the Hornet visited Dole’s office in Uptown Charlotte last week.